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Fleeing Fate: Lunar Eclipse Book One
What if your fated mate is the villain of your story?
Emily Taylor, a sweet omega, has little choice but to flee before her mate bond to the monstrous Alpha Aidan Blackwell is confirmed. But her escape doesn’t go smoothly and by the time she stumbles—injured and sick—into the Lunar Eclipse territory, she’s all out of options.
That’s when she meets Jackson Clark—the gruff, brooding delta responsible for pack security. He helps her, but he doesn’t trust her. Because Jackson has trauma of his own and trusting the damaged new girl his wolf pines for is something he’s not prepared for.
He watches her like a predator waiting for its prey to slip up. And yet… when he’s near, Emily’s wolf purrs instead of cowering. They can’t help being drawn to each other, no matter how hard they try to resist the pull.
Because Jackson’s touch lights a fire within Emily, making her feel things she thought she never could. With him, the scars of Emily’s past begin to fade.
But Emily’s past isn’t done with her.
The monster she fled is still hunting.
And when he finds her, no one will be safe.
Especially not Jackson.
A paranormal romance filled with darkness, desire, fated mates, healing, and trauma recovery. Perfect for readers who crave intensity, danger, and steamy tension. Open-door scenes. Not suitable for readers under 18. Please check trigger warnings.
This couple will have their HEA, but shadows from this book will haunt the series.
Tropes
Twist on fated mates
Strangers to Lovers
Protective Alpha male energy
Damsel in distress
Healing Journey
He falls first
Who hurt you?
Touch her and die
Saving herself
Found family
Emily Taylor, a sweet omega, has little choice but to flee before her mate bond to the monstrous Alpha Aidan Blackwell is confirmed. But her escape doesn’t go smoothly and by the time she stumbles—injured and sick—into the Lunar Eclipse territory, she’s all out of options.
That’s when she meets Jackson Clark—the gruff, brooding delta responsible for pack security. He helps her, but he doesn’t trust her. Because Jackson has trauma of his own and trusting the damaged new girl his wolf pines for is something he’s not prepared for.
He watches her like a predator waiting for its prey to slip up. And yet… when he’s near, Emily’s wolf purrs instead of cowering. They can’t help being drawn to each other, no matter how hard they try to resist the pull.
Because Jackson’s touch lights a fire within Emily, making her feel things she thought she never could. With him, the scars of Emily’s past begin to fade.
But Emily’s past isn’t done with her.
The monster she fled is still hunting.
And when he finds her, no one will be safe.
Especially not Jackson.
A paranormal romance filled with darkness, desire, fated mates, healing, and trauma recovery. Perfect for readers who crave intensity, danger, and steamy tension. Open-door scenes. Not suitable for readers under 18. Please check trigger warnings.
This couple will have their HEA, but shadows from this book will haunt the series.
Tropes
Twist on fated mates
Strangers to Lovers
Protective Alpha male energy
Damsel in distress
Healing Journey
He falls first
Who hurt you?
Touch her and die
Saving herself
Found family
338 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 27, 2025
49 people are currently reading
270 people want to read
About the author
Fiona Rowan
2 books57 followersFiona is a therapist and author who combines her love of all things mental health and smut to create stories filled with recovery, tension, spice, darkness and light. Guaranteed HEA with every book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 163 reviews
May 19, 2025
Fleeing Fate by Fiona Rowan is dark, spicy, and deeply emotional—a powerful blend of paranormal romance and trauma recovery that never flinches. Emily’s journey through abuse and into healing is raw, resilient, and beautifully told. Rowan doesn’t sugarcoat the pain, but she also doesn’t let it define her FMC. The mental health rep is one of the most comprehensive I’ve seen, It's nuanced, central, and deeply earned.
What truly sets Fleeing Fate apart is its brilliant subversion of the fated mates trope. Emily, the FMC, doesn’t surrender to fate—she runs from it, fights for her autonomy, and in doing so, discovers real love, confidence and safety on her own terms.
Jackson, the MMC, isn’t the typical alpha male. His POV chapters are a standout. He’s not there to save Emily, but gives her the tools to defend herself and build her confidence while, at the same time, he accepts who she is and where she's at in her journey. The spice is SPICY and Jackson's got a mouth on him.
Sophia is absolutely iconic. Sassy, loyal, and unforgettable. She steals every scene she’s in, and deserves her own spinoff.
I can’t believe this is Rowan’s first novel. The emotional depth and character work feel like the writing of a seasoned pro. I’ll be first in line for anything she writes next. Trigger warnings are essential here. Rowan doesn’t flinch from hard truths, but it’s a powerful, cathartic ride that doesn’t shy away from the dark corners of the human (or shifter) experience, and it’s stronger for it. Rowan addresses DA with honesty and integrity.
*Received an advanced copy but the opinions are all my own.
What truly sets Fleeing Fate apart is its brilliant subversion of the fated mates trope. Emily, the FMC, doesn’t surrender to fate—she runs from it, fights for her autonomy, and in doing so, discovers real love, confidence and safety on her own terms.
Jackson, the MMC, isn’t the typical alpha male. His POV chapters are a standout. He’s not there to save Emily, but gives her the tools to defend herself and build her confidence while, at the same time, he accepts who she is and where she's at in her journey. The spice is SPICY and Jackson's got a mouth on him.
Sophia is absolutely iconic. Sassy, loyal, and unforgettable. She steals every scene she’s in, and deserves her own spinoff.
I can’t believe this is Rowan’s first novel. The emotional depth and character work feel like the writing of a seasoned pro. I’ll be first in line for anything she writes next. Trigger warnings are essential here. Rowan doesn’t flinch from hard truths, but it’s a powerful, cathartic ride that doesn’t shy away from the dark corners of the human (or shifter) experience, and it’s stronger for it. Rowan addresses DA with honesty and integrity.
*Received an advanced copy but the opinions are all my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 27, 2025
Anyone who has grown up in a household tainted by abuse knows what it means to shrink into yourself, to smooth out your rougher edges, to smile, to appease, to be amenable, to be compliant, to be silent and to be controlled - often not overtly, but by the lingering threat of what might happen if you don’t obey. Those learned behaviours designed to keep us safe linger into adulthood, and - ironically - become the exact thing that makes us vulnerable, that perpetuates the cycle of violence. That can seem inescapable, but it only takes one moment, of realisation, recklessness, stupidity, bravery - whatever you want to call it - to finally break free.
Emily, our fierce, broken, kind FMC does just that, and the journey that Rowan takes us on through her is touching and inspiring in equal measure, as well as devastating to read (I was in bits constantly), and laugh out loud funny too.
Emily is such a refreshing FMC because she doesn’t have all of the answers and because, despite being a wolf shifter, of her relatable humanity. Jackson is her perfect match in every way, a protector for someone who has never been protected, but who also feels he is inadequate and flawed.
Fleeing Fate is not your average romantasy; it is packed with trauma and healing that is properly explored, it is low stakes, but high on emotion, and I devoured it.
Emily, our fierce, broken, kind FMC does just that, and the journey that Rowan takes us on through her is touching and inspiring in equal measure, as well as devastating to read (I was in bits constantly), and laugh out loud funny too.
Emily is such a refreshing FMC because she doesn’t have all of the answers and because, despite being a wolf shifter, of her relatable humanity. Jackson is her perfect match in every way, a protector for someone who has never been protected, but who also feels he is inadequate and flawed.
Fleeing Fate is not your average romantasy; it is packed with trauma and healing that is properly explored, it is low stakes, but high on emotion, and I devoured it.
June 24, 2025
Thank you Fiona Rowan for sending me this advanced review copy for free. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book was amazing, but please read the TW before diving in. It tackles some really tough abuse related subjects.
The pacing was spot on perfect. It was fast, but with plenty of quiet moments to rest before the action picks up again. The spice was fantastic too. You can tell the author is a therapist with the little details that made it feel so raw and real. There were times it was hard to read because of how intense the abuse scenes were.
Emily has had a tortured, abused existence her whole life. Starting with her father, and continuing with the alpha of her pack Aiden. Every kind of abuse that you can think of has happened to this poor woman. She almost died trying to escape it. Thankfully she found a safe place, healing, and love. It was amazing to watch her open up bit, by tiny bit. I loved watching her understand what love is really like.
Jackson has his own incredibly painful past at well, and carries a deep guilt inside of him. He starts off as a grumpy mean guy, and over time as he understands Emily's past and that she isn't a threat, and we get to see his soft cinnamon roll center.
The side characters are great too, and Sofia was hands down my favorite. She is bossy and fun, in a good way. I still hate Aiden, but he was incredibly well written.
This is one of those books that is going to haunt me for a long time.
This book was amazing, but please read the TW before diving in. It tackles some really tough abuse related subjects.
The pacing was spot on perfect. It was fast, but with plenty of quiet moments to rest before the action picks up again. The spice was fantastic too. You can tell the author is a therapist with the little details that made it feel so raw and real. There were times it was hard to read because of how intense the abuse scenes were.
Emily has had a tortured, abused existence her whole life. Starting with her father, and continuing with the alpha of her pack Aiden. Every kind of abuse that you can think of has happened to this poor woman. She almost died trying to escape it. Thankfully she found a safe place, healing, and love. It was amazing to watch her open up bit, by tiny bit. I loved watching her understand what love is really like.
Jackson has his own incredibly painful past at well, and carries a deep guilt inside of him. He starts off as a grumpy mean guy, and over time as he understands Emily's past and that she isn't a threat, and we get to see his soft cinnamon roll center.
The side characters are great too, and Sofia was hands down my favorite. She is bossy and fun, in a good way. I still hate Aiden, but he was incredibly well written.
This is one of those books that is going to haunt me for a long time.
June 26, 2025
this book has me in a chokehold. Absolutely loved this book. It felt like a virtual hug. I am in awe of Emily and her resilience. She’s a true inspiration. Her trauma was written and portrayed extremely well and her healing journey is just absolutely amazing. Jackson Clark. Wow. What a man. He is everything, and also has his own trauma which is of course a bonus. Literally everything Emily deserves and more. An amazing cast of side characters, Sofia of course being my favourite. The way she becomes Emily’s first friend had me crying. I adored this book so much! The cliffhanger at the end ? I’m still recovering. Thankyou so much to Fiona rowan for my arc copy 🫶
July 2, 2025
It's giving how to contextualize your experience surviving the patriarchy.
Shifter girlies who want a clean cut, healing from trauma read this one is calling your name. Every moment was a lesson in taking time to mend all those broken experiences, about letting go of resentments and pardoning yourself from the occasional trauma response.
Despite the dark context, I found this to be really quite wholesome. Fiona is showing us an image of the peace we are all looking for and we love to see healthy queens thrive.
Shifter girlies who want a clean cut, healing from trauma read this one is calling your name. Every moment was a lesson in taking time to mend all those broken experiences, about letting go of resentments and pardoning yourself from the occasional trauma response.
Despite the dark context, I found this to be really quite wholesome. Fiona is showing us an image of the peace we are all looking for and we love to see healthy queens thrive.
May 27, 2025
This book wasn’t a typical shifter book but one that really showed the power of being a survivor of DV. The power of having the right people in your corner and loving you no matter what you have done or gone through. No pity but admiration of the strength at which it took to survive.
The FMC is a very weak and broken shifter living in a pack that treats her worse than trash. No respect or freedom. The punching bag that has to pretend she isn’t hurting. To be a specific standard for the alpha and his pack. One day it became too much and she ran. Little did she know that taking that chance at survival and freedom would lead her a world that would change everything she knew to be true.
She finds a safe place but can she endanger them if he comes after her? Could she learn to protect herself and make any difference? Could she be happy on the run and never finding happiness but being alive?
I love the found family and the fact that she has to become strong mentally. To not just survive DV but to mentally be strong. To know her worth and know that what she had happen isn’t okay. I love that people are there for her even without really knowing her. I love her curiosity to explore who she is outside of a DV survivor. Finding her voice. Fighting for what is right and what she deserves.
The FMC is a very weak and broken shifter living in a pack that treats her worse than trash. No respect or freedom. The punching bag that has to pretend she isn’t hurting. To be a specific standard for the alpha and his pack. One day it became too much and she ran. Little did she know that taking that chance at survival and freedom would lead her a world that would change everything she knew to be true.
She finds a safe place but can she endanger them if he comes after her? Could she learn to protect herself and make any difference? Could she be happy on the run and never finding happiness but being alive?
I love the found family and the fact that she has to become strong mentally. To not just survive DV but to mentally be strong. To know her worth and know that what she had happen isn’t okay. I love that people are there for her even without really knowing her. I love her curiosity to explore who she is outside of a DV survivor. Finding her voice. Fighting for what is right and what she deserves.
June 20, 2025
Emily has lived with her boyfriend, the pack Alpha, for the past few years. His abuse has slowly escalated over time to the point that she's broken inside, and accepting of whatever he chooses to do to her. With her 21st birthday on the horizon, and the knowledge that the mate bond will finally click into place, she realizes this is her last chance to escape before he'll be able to know where she is at all times. In a last ditch effort she tries to run, and everything goes wrong.
*****
This was such an unexpectedly impactful novel. I love shifter reads for the society, the way the mate bonds come into play, and how the characters approach them. I was not expecting such an intense story of trauma, abuse and healing to be woven into it. This was the perfect blend of dark themes, a broken FMC, and her fighting to find the strength inside of her again.
I loved that this still played into the shifter stereotypes of a connected lead being obsessed with them to the point of distraction. As well as relationships moving at a quicker pace due to how bonds and society affected them. If this was a contemporary romance, the obsession and timeline wouldn't fit, but this was absolutely perfect for this type of world. I also loved the therapy and mental health rep that was woven into this, and how conductively the author chose to approach trauma, healing, and overcoming abuse in leaps, while also falling back into triggered patterns on a whim.
Overall this was a captivating and solid debut, and the setup for book 2 has me absolutely hooked already!
*****
Thank you to the author, Fiona Rowan, for the digital ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
*****
This was such an unexpectedly impactful novel. I love shifter reads for the society, the way the mate bonds come into play, and how the characters approach them. I was not expecting such an intense story of trauma, abuse and healing to be woven into it. This was the perfect blend of dark themes, a broken FMC, and her fighting to find the strength inside of her again.
I loved that this still played into the shifter stereotypes of a connected lead being obsessed with them to the point of distraction. As well as relationships moving at a quicker pace due to how bonds and society affected them. If this was a contemporary romance, the obsession and timeline wouldn't fit, but this was absolutely perfect for this type of world. I also loved the therapy and mental health rep that was woven into this, and how conductively the author chose to approach trauma, healing, and overcoming abuse in leaps, while also falling back into triggered patterns on a whim.
Overall this was a captivating and solid debut, and the setup for book 2 has me absolutely hooked already!
*****
Thank you to the author, Fiona Rowan, for the digital ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 25, 2025
ARC Book
OMG Great book! We all know shifters aren’t actually real, but when we read about ones like Jackson (our MMC), we really wish they were! Of course, it isn’t about them being shifters, it’s about them being kind, caring, and protective while building you up. This book can be classified as “finding the strength and courage to leave the abusive relationship, then working on building up your own strength, recognizing the red flags, and learning that the abuse is not the fault of anyone but the one doing the abusing.” There is a lot of “remnants” of the emotional abuse in this book, and through all of her healing, Emily has to try to get the voice out of her head.
The old saying “sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me” is a crock! I recall saying it as a kid, but when someone tells you something often enough, you begin to believe it; it’s hard to get around what you’ve been told for years. The last few chapters (from about 15, so halfway), I did NOT want to put the book down. It was very engaging from the start, and heart stopping throughout the majority of the last half. A few twists I didn’t see coming, and I was vibrating in my seat waiting to see what happened.
A great ending to anticipate the next book in the series! I cannot wait to continue reading the story!
OMG Great book! We all know shifters aren’t actually real, but when we read about ones like Jackson (our MMC), we really wish they were! Of course, it isn’t about them being shifters, it’s about them being kind, caring, and protective while building you up. This book can be classified as “finding the strength and courage to leave the abusive relationship, then working on building up your own strength, recognizing the red flags, and learning that the abuse is not the fault of anyone but the one doing the abusing.” There is a lot of “remnants” of the emotional abuse in this book, and through all of her healing, Emily has to try to get the voice out of her head.
The old saying “sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me” is a crock! I recall saying it as a kid, but when someone tells you something often enough, you begin to believe it; it’s hard to get around what you’ve been told for years. The last few chapters (from about 15, so halfway), I did NOT want to put the book down. It was very engaging from the start, and heart stopping throughout the majority of the last half. A few twists I didn’t see coming, and I was vibrating in my seat waiting to see what happened.
A great ending to anticipate the next book in the series! I cannot wait to continue reading the story!
June 22, 2025
Werewolf romance, emotional/trauma, fated mates, hurt/comfort, obsessed MMC, he teaches her self defense, steamy & spicy)
This was an emotional, sweet, steamy and spicy werewolf romance from a new author!
First...this story does cover dark topics, trauma and abuse. Please read the trigger warnings!
I enjoyed this book because it was relatable, steamy and thrilling! I absolutely love when a character, especially the female main character (FMC), has trauma or obstacles that they need to work through to grow and become stronger! It's so captivating to "watch" and is relatable and thrilling to see the story play out and the character growth. Here for it! It also helps that the author is a Counselor herself so the mental health/trauma feels/is authentic...packing an emotional punch.
I also love when an MMC is patient, caring, obsessed and yet alittle dominate...hello werewolf romances! Makes the steamy tension so delicious and the spice extra spicy!
I am excited to see more from this new author!
This was an emotional, sweet, steamy and spicy werewolf romance from a new author!
First...this story does cover dark topics, trauma and abuse. Please read the trigger warnings!
I enjoyed this book because it was relatable, steamy and thrilling! I absolutely love when a character, especially the female main character (FMC), has trauma or obstacles that they need to work through to grow and become stronger! It's so captivating to "watch" and is relatable and thrilling to see the story play out and the character growth. Here for it! It also helps that the author is a Counselor herself so the mental health/trauma feels/is authentic...packing an emotional punch.
I also love when an MMC is patient, caring, obsessed and yet alittle dominate...hello werewolf romances! Makes the steamy tension so delicious and the spice extra spicy!
I am excited to see more from this new author!
June 29, 2025
I'm a sucker for anything werewolf, so of course I had to preorder. This is not the usual mated bond HEA story because the FMC needed to get away from the abusive supposed mate.
The book is very short because you are dropped right into the story with no frills or fillers. Their wolf sides, portrayed as a split personality, even have insta-love and he pulls the "who hurt you" line early on. First half was bingeable but the second half made me almost DNF.
Read this if you need a break from the usual physically strong FMC saving herself, if you want focus on the paranormal romance with little world-building, and if you don't mind the typo where Aiden's last name jumps between Blackwell and Blackwood.
The book is very short because you are dropped right into the story with no frills or fillers. Their wolf sides, portrayed as a split personality, even have insta-love and he pulls the "who hurt you" line early on. First half was bingeable but the second half made me almost DNF.
Read this if you need a break from the usual physically strong FMC saving herself, if you want focus on the paranormal romance with little world-building, and if you don't mind the typo where Aiden's last name jumps between Blackwell and Blackwood.
June 28, 2025
This is a book that can take a formula for something and execute it really well! I love a good shifter story especially one where the FMC comes into safety, empowerment, and eventually more solidly into themselves. Even though along the way you had disputes what would happen, there’s so much that makes this a pleasant surprise of a story.
I do think that at times the mental health aspects felt a little heavy handed as far as the timeline where you might expect certain results. However you can absolutely suspend your disbelief on that given…these are shifters.
I appreciate the diversity, I appreciate the development of Sofia and Luca especially towards the end of the book. I also like that Ryan didn’t just get a pass, hierarchy or not.
It’s a solid read, and a lovely addition to some of my fav spicy shifter romances!
I do think that at times the mental health aspects felt a little heavy handed as far as the timeline where you might expect certain results. However you can absolutely suspend your disbelief on that given…these are shifters.
I appreciate the diversity, I appreciate the development of Sofia and Luca especially towards the end of the book. I also like that Ryan didn’t just get a pass, hierarchy or not.
It’s a solid read, and a lovely addition to some of my fav spicy shifter romances!
May 23, 2025
1) I want to be a shifter.
2) I want a Jackson.
3) I want a Sofia.
Fiona Rowan’s debut checked all my boxes and then some! The female friendship in this book is so beautiful, and watching Emily grow despite her trauma is incredibly powerful. Also, Jackson is truly a walking green flag with a dirty mouth—I love him.
I absolutely cannot wait for book two. 😍
2) I want a Jackson.
3) I want a Sofia.
Fiona Rowan’s debut checked all my boxes and then some! The female friendship in this book is so beautiful, and watching Emily grow despite her trauma is incredibly powerful. Also, Jackson is truly a walking green flag with a dirty mouth—I love him.
I absolutely cannot wait for book two. 😍
July 2, 2025
Fleeing Fate is so much more than just a romantasy with a swoony HEA 😍. It’s a phenomenal read that dives deep,not just into love after healing, but into the lasting impact of trauma and what it really means to rise from it.
I picked this up in desperate need of a wolf shifter fix… and let me tell you, it delivered 👏🔥. Fiona Rowan doesn’t just walk us through Emily’s healing journey, she strips back every layer of the trauma that shaped her, exposing the raw, painful truths with an honesty that’s rare and refreshing. I loved that she didn’t flinch from the hard stuff. It was bold. It was gutting. And it was so real. In a world where authors often dance around difficult themes, Rowan went all in! No sugarcoating, no veiled metaphors. Just an unfiltered, powerful journey of a woman learning to survive and thrive.
Emily’s story isn’t just about love, it’s about rediscovery, resilience, and reclaiming your fight. It’s moving. It’s empowering. And it’s the kind of soul-soothing story that stays with you.
Then there’s the found family 🥹 (Sofia is the bestie we all deserve), the loyal wolf pack (yes, the shirtless kind 👀🔥), and a second-chance fated mates trope done in a way that actually feels new. It’s got witty banter, heartwarming moments, emotional gut punches, and enough pack chemistry to make you want to leave your city life behind and run with the wolves 🤭.
And that ending? A beautiful, emotional HEA that’ll have you kicking your feet and squealing with joy 😍.
I seriously can’t wait to see what Fiona Rowan brings us next. Her writing is fearless, emotionally rich, and absolutely unforgettable. She’s officially on my auto-buy list.
I picked this up in desperate need of a wolf shifter fix… and let me tell you, it delivered 👏🔥. Fiona Rowan doesn’t just walk us through Emily’s healing journey, she strips back every layer of the trauma that shaped her, exposing the raw, painful truths with an honesty that’s rare and refreshing. I loved that she didn’t flinch from the hard stuff. It was bold. It was gutting. And it was so real. In a world where authors often dance around difficult themes, Rowan went all in! No sugarcoating, no veiled metaphors. Just an unfiltered, powerful journey of a woman learning to survive and thrive.
Emily’s story isn’t just about love, it’s about rediscovery, resilience, and reclaiming your fight. It’s moving. It’s empowering. And it’s the kind of soul-soothing story that stays with you.
Then there’s the found family 🥹 (Sofia is the bestie we all deserve), the loyal wolf pack (yes, the shirtless kind 👀🔥), and a second-chance fated mates trope done in a way that actually feels new. It’s got witty banter, heartwarming moments, emotional gut punches, and enough pack chemistry to make you want to leave your city life behind and run with the wolves 🤭.
And that ending? A beautiful, emotional HEA that’ll have you kicking your feet and squealing with joy 😍.
I seriously can’t wait to see what Fiona Rowan brings us next. Her writing is fearless, emotionally rich, and absolutely unforgettable. She’s officially on my auto-buy list.
November 2, 2025
Just... not for me. I needed more plot and fuller characters.
What really interested me in this book was the exploration of trauma in a wolf shifter romance. It's not something you see every day. Unfortunately, this was a tough read (and not because of the subject matter).
Let's start with the writing. There was a lack of trusting the reader that made the book repetitive. At times, things felt over described, whether it was an action a character was completing or the FMC's physical reaction to the MMC.
I'm huge on characters. I need a SOLID MMC and this one didn't do it for me. Jackson constantly mentioned Emily's looks. It felt so pre-pubescent and like his attraction to her was purely physical. It was a bit tiring to constantly hear how hot, gorgeous, perfect, amazing she looked, especially with all the trauma she'd gone through. It made their relationship feel shallow.
I didn't mind Emily as an FMC. She went through so much and got her HEA in the end. Good for her! The best character was Sophia and she came off a little Mary-Sueish to me. Just a tad.
The spice between the two was okay. Sometimes, her physical reactions were a bit too much. Like her skin tingled, heat to her core, etc. back to back in one paragraph can read like a grocery list. I thought it was interesting that he would choose to call her a during sex. Also thought the scene where she was was interesting too. It felt a little "let's add more spice" despite context.
And while I don't expect a ton of plot in wolf shifter romance, this one was a bit too flat for me. It felt like training sessions, therapy sessions, spice - repeat. I would have loved to see Emily learning about the pack or helping out in some way. It would've given her some texture and the book some worldbuilding too. But she didn't have anything going on, which made the pacing drag.
One of my biggest annoyances in books is plot convenience. When characters do things that don't align with their personalities just to move the plot forward. So when - no.
The next story sounds interesting, but I'm not sure I'll check it out. ~PastelSkiesReviews
What really interested me in this book was the exploration of trauma in a wolf shifter romance. It's not something you see every day. Unfortunately, this was a tough read (and not because of the subject matter).
Let's start with the writing. There was a lack of trusting the reader that made the book repetitive. At times, things felt over described, whether it was an action a character was completing or the FMC's physical reaction to the MMC.
I'm huge on characters. I need a SOLID MMC and this one didn't do it for me. Jackson constantly mentioned Emily's looks. It felt so pre-pubescent and like his attraction to her was purely physical. It was a bit tiring to constantly hear how hot, gorgeous, perfect, amazing she looked, especially with all the trauma she'd gone through. It made their relationship feel shallow.
I didn't mind Emily as an FMC. She went through so much and got her HEA in the end. Good for her! The best character was Sophia and she came off a little Mary-Sueish to me. Just a tad.
The spice between the two was okay. Sometimes, her physical reactions were a bit too much. Like her skin tingled, heat to her core, etc. back to back in one paragraph can read like a grocery list. I thought it was interesting that he would choose to call her a during sex. Also thought the scene where she was was interesting too. It felt a little "let's add more spice" despite context.
And while I don't expect a ton of plot in wolf shifter romance, this one was a bit too flat for me. It felt like training sessions, therapy sessions, spice - repeat. I would have loved to see Emily learning about the pack or helping out in some way. It would've given her some texture and the book some worldbuilding too. But she didn't have anything going on, which made the pacing drag.
One of my biggest annoyances in books is plot convenience. When characters do things that don't align with their personalities just to move the plot forward. So when - no.
The next story sounds interesting, but I'm not sure I'll check it out. ~PastelSkiesReviews
June 5, 2025
This book tackled some very heavy topics and there is a lot of focus on overcoming trauma and healing for both the MMC and FMC.
There were things I liked and disliked about both MCs, but overall, a pretty good debut. I liked how Emily came out of her shell after being a victim of domestic abuse basically all her life. She was very skittish and very wary of everyone she met. I'm glad that she was able to find a great friendship with Sofia and worked hard on her physical strength and mental health. Jackson was a little hot/cold in the beginning (understandable with his history) but was very caring, protective, and observant. I; however, was not a fan of how he sexualized Emily (at somewhat inappropriate times, but yes, I understand he was just very physically attracted to her). It felt like this was more focused on physical attraction vs them building a friendship based on the pull they have towards each other. I wanted more emotional depth besides the one or two scenes we got, but they were pretty cute with each other.
You could definitely tell that the author is a therapist with how every little detail was included/explained (which I both liked and disliked at the same time). I loved how certain things were explained but then it got a little repetitive plot-wise (a lot of similar scenes with training sessions, therapy, and Emily spiraling).
Can't wait for book 2 with Sofia and Luca (and to see how the sub-plot from this book is carried out).
3.75
There were things I liked and disliked about both MCs, but overall, a pretty good debut. I liked how Emily came out of her shell after being a victim of domestic abuse basically all her life. She was very skittish and very wary of everyone she met. I'm glad that she was able to find a great friendship with Sofia and worked hard on her physical strength and mental health. Jackson was a little hot/cold in the beginning (understandable with his history) but was very caring, protective, and observant. I; however, was not a fan of how he sexualized Emily (at somewhat inappropriate times, but yes, I understand he was just very physically attracted to her). It felt like this was more focused on physical attraction vs them building a friendship based on the pull they have towards each other. I wanted more emotional depth besides the one or two scenes we got, but they were pretty cute with each other.
You could definitely tell that the author is a therapist with how every little detail was included/explained (which I both liked and disliked at the same time). I loved how certain things were explained but then it got a little repetitive plot-wise (a lot of similar scenes with training sessions, therapy, and Emily spiraling).
Can't wait for book 2 with Sofia and Luca (and to see how the sub-plot from this book is carried out).
3.75
June 26, 2025
Thank you Fiona for trusting me with this ARC.
It has been a while since I read an omegaverse book and this one felt special. It starts with the Omega escaping a very abusive Alpha and is justifiably traumatized. However, this is the first time I personally have encountered an OV story where the emphasis on the healing journey including more than the classic 3: teaching the trauma victim to fight back, showing them how strong they are and showing them true affection. All of those are important to the journey BUT this one included therapy and not in an abstract way but ACTUALLY the therapy sessions.
Some of the passages during those sessions had me just .... here is my favourite:
"... trauma isn’t the awful thing that happened to you, it’s how your body and brain respond to the danger. It’s how your brain keeps the memory alive to keep you safe."
I have never heard trauma described like this and I just let out a breath when I read it.
This book was healing, it was heartwarming, it was spicy, AND it left me gasping at the end.
It has been a while since I read an omegaverse book and this one felt special. It starts with the Omega escaping a very abusive Alpha and is justifiably traumatized. However, this is the first time I personally have encountered an OV story where the emphasis on the healing journey including more than the classic 3: teaching the trauma victim to fight back, showing them how strong they are and showing them true affection. All of those are important to the journey BUT this one included therapy and not in an abstract way but ACTUALLY the therapy sessions.
Some of the passages during those sessions had me just .... here is my favourite:
"... trauma isn’t the awful thing that happened to you, it’s how your body and brain respond to the danger. It’s how your brain keeps the memory alive to keep you safe."
I have never heard trauma described like this and I just let out a breath when I read it.
This book was healing, it was heartwarming, it was spicy, AND it left me gasping at the end.
June 19, 2025
This book was great! It was an easy read from start to finish. Definitely check the trigger warnings on this one! It was a dark fantasy romance that tackled some really difficult and dark experiences, but handled them beautifully. The therapy part was done so well, it was no surprise to read that the author is a therapist!
I was feeling a lot of emotions while reading this. I was so anxiously impatient at times that I wanted to skip ahead to see if everything was going to be okay because the suspense was killing me (in a good way!). This book was well-written, engaging, and ended in a way that things felt concluded but also opened doors to the next book in the series. I am already anxiously waiting for book 2!!
*I am honored to have received an ARC of this book. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
I was feeling a lot of emotions while reading this. I was so anxiously impatient at times that I wanted to skip ahead to see if everything was going to be okay because the suspense was killing me (in a good way!). This book was well-written, engaging, and ended in a way that things felt concluded but also opened doors to the next book in the series. I am already anxiously waiting for book 2!!
*I am honored to have received an ARC of this book. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
June 25, 2025
This was so impactful. My heart is broken for what Emily had to go through.
Fiona did a great job of depicting living with trauma and the healing journey that comes from finally getting free an abuser. Especially the fact that it’s not a straight line and people are not magically okay after one day.
Jackson you are the man. He was so supportive and instead of sugarcoating things he provided real tools to help Emily move forward.
I really enjoyed the depiction of the mating bond in this world. As well as how different characters let this bond impact their lives in different ways.
I 100% hate Aiden will all my being, and that’s how you know he was well written.
I cannot wait for book 2, I need to know what is going to happen with Sofia and Katie!
Remember to check your trigger warnings!
Thank you Fiona for the early copy.
Fiona did a great job of depicting living with trauma and the healing journey that comes from finally getting free an abuser. Especially the fact that it’s not a straight line and people are not magically okay after one day.
Jackson you are the man. He was so supportive and instead of sugarcoating things he provided real tools to help Emily move forward.
I really enjoyed the depiction of the mating bond in this world. As well as how different characters let this bond impact their lives in different ways.
I 100% hate Aiden will all my being, and that’s how you know he was well written.
I cannot wait for book 2, I need to know what is going to happen with Sofia and Katie!
Remember to check your trigger warnings!
Thank you Fiona for the early copy.
June 28, 2025
10/10 recommend this book.
This book was an emotional read done correctly and for all the right reasons. A dark world setting with a positive outcome! I loved the character growth although fated mates it really wasn’t that “insta-love” that a lot of fated mates stories have which for me personally was great. I loved broody MMC but I love a strong FMC more is this book had all that and some spice too.
The character growth of the FMC was superbly done given the situational starting point for her story both mentally and physically showing a clear amount of respect to those who may have gone through similar incidents, there was no glamorisation just understanding and empathy.
I am thoroughly looking forward to book 2, to read Sofia and Lucas story! And to see the outcome of the ongoing search. ♥️
This book was an emotional read done correctly and for all the right reasons. A dark world setting with a positive outcome! I loved the character growth although fated mates it really wasn’t that “insta-love” that a lot of fated mates stories have which for me personally was great. I loved broody MMC but I love a strong FMC more is this book had all that and some spice too.
The character growth of the FMC was superbly done given the situational starting point for her story both mentally and physically showing a clear amount of respect to those who may have gone through similar incidents, there was no glamorisation just understanding and empathy.
I am thoroughly looking forward to book 2, to read Sofia and Lucas story! And to see the outcome of the ongoing search. ♥️
May 24, 2025
This book contains some dark subjects.
But I like that there is a lot of focus on overcoming trauma (a lot of trauma Fmc&MMC)
Jackson is a good guy, absolutely adorable and has a wonderfully dirty mouth. His wolf is instantly protective of Emily, him as a man, is of course confused about his feelings.
Emilys wolf like Jackson, is instantly enamoured, but her trauma makes it difficult to trust. The way her character develops and grows through the book is fantastic.
Sofia steals the show, as the alphas sister she is not afraid to put the men back in their place. She is an amazing character and such a great friend to Emily.
This was such an emotional read but it did also make me laugh and scream at parts (in a good way).
Can't wait for book 2 🤭
But I like that there is a lot of focus on overcoming trauma (a lot of trauma Fmc&MMC)
Jackson is a good guy, absolutely adorable and has a wonderfully dirty mouth. His wolf is instantly protective of Emily, him as a man, is of course confused about his feelings.
Emilys wolf like Jackson, is instantly enamoured, but her trauma makes it difficult to trust. The way her character develops and grows through the book is fantastic.
Sofia steals the show, as the alphas sister she is not afraid to put the men back in their place. She is an amazing character and such a great friend to Emily.
This was such an emotional read but it did also make me laugh and scream at parts (in a good way).
Can't wait for book 2 🤭
May 29, 2025
What a wonderful story of found family and trauma healing. We have Emily who is an Omega being abused by her “mate” but it isn’t confirmed. He is horrible. When she finally finds the courage to escape, she ends up in a new pack badly injured. Delta Jackson doesn’t know if he is coming or going. But he does feel a sense to protect Emily. I was seriously routing for these two. I love how they both had traumatic experiences and overcame them together. Emily’s character development from a little rabbit to a fierce wolf shows what can happen when you have a support group that builds you up. Jackson is just as fine with his sweatpants wearing self. I love when he calls her Little Wolf. Overall I enjoyed this book and I can’t wait to see what book 2 has in stores.
May 29, 2025
Shifter romances are not typically high on my list, and the ones I have read are usually between a human and a shifter, not two shifters. That being said l really did LOVE THIS. Emily's story and how her trauma effected her was intense. Jackson was perfect for her. Although I do wish there had been more relationship building before they were all "I love you, babe," that might just be more of a trope within the shifters world that I'm not used to (something to do with the bond?) So really the only misgivings I have with this book is personal preference/inexperience with the genre. Absolutely 5 stars and CANNOT wait to see what happens with Sophia and Luca in the next book (they were my faves)
Thank you to the author for gifting me an eARC to read :)
Thank you to the author for gifting me an eARC to read :)
October 22, 2025
Fleeting Fate delivers a fascinating take on the human/wolf symbiotic relationship, blending primal instinct with emotional depth in a way that feels both raw and meaningful. The connection between the characters and their inner beasts was one of the strongest parts of the story, showing how survival, loyalty, and love can intertwine in powerful ways.
That said, the story could have been even better without so many sex scenes. While they may have been meant to show intimacy or tension, they often distracted from the incredible plot and character development happening underneath.
Overall, Fleeting Fate is a beautifully written and imaginative story that balances humanity and nature, just occasionally weighed down by too much heat when the story itself was strong enough to stand on its own.
That said, the story could have been even better without so many sex scenes. While they may have been meant to show intimacy or tension, they often distracted from the incredible plot and character development happening underneath.
Overall, Fleeting Fate is a beautifully written and imaginative story that balances humanity and nature, just occasionally weighed down by too much heat when the story itself was strong enough to stand on its own.
June 27, 2025
I received this book as an ARC and I enjoyed it so much that I preordered it for when it comes out. It is a story of survival and finding yourself again and being able to heal and trust yourself again. Emily goes through terrible abuse at the hands of her first mate and all the females in her pack are treated terribly, but she is mated to the alpha she is told and she has it exceptionally terrible. She finally manages to escape, but not without almost dying and finds her way to a new pack that luckily has a good doctor and a female that befriends her and sees how traumatized she is. She has to gain the trust of some others and she has to learn how to heal and uncover some other horrible things her previous pack is involved in, but this book really discusses the mind f that is involved with bringing an abusive relationship. It’s not always only the physical abuse, but also the mental and emotional and getting to the point where you can’t trust yourself in any possible situation. Fiona does a stellar job of showing how much support is needed in healing and how hard and messy healing is. Sometimes it’s one step forward and seven steps back, but this main character is strong and resilient and the story line is so good, the writing is phenomenal. I can’t wait for book two to see how Luca and Fia resolve (I had a feeling the entire book) and to see how the solve the other nasty thing Emily’s old pack is involved in. Thank you for letting me ARC.
June 19, 2025
3.5⭐
I enjoyed this book. I think this is the first book I've read that's written by a therapist so the way Fiona explored their emotions and responses was really interesting. There are so many characters in books like these who I often think just really need therapy so it was nice to see Emily actually do that work.That being said, I felt like sometimes the plot got bogged down with too much description with those aspects.
Overall it was an interesting read so I'd recommend it to those looking for a different take on a shifter romance. Definitely check the trigger warnings before reading!
Thanks to Fiona Rowan for the ARC!
I enjoyed this book. I think this is the first book I've read that's written by a therapist so the way Fiona explored their emotions and responses was really interesting. There are so many characters in books like these who I often think just really need therapy so it was nice to see Emily actually do that work.That being said, I felt like sometimes the plot got bogged down with too much description with those aspects.
Overall it was an interesting read so I'd recommend it to those looking for a different take on a shifter romance. Definitely check the trigger warnings before reading!
Thanks to Fiona Rowan for the ARC!
November 4, 2025
I love a good shifter romance, this one is incredibly well written and I love the dynamics between all of the characters.
There are trigger warnings on this one so double check before going into it.
I don’t want to give any spoilers but I will say that The way this book had me crying, shouting and kicking my feet like a giggling schoolgirl is almost embarrassing. Jackson will now live in the book boyfriends part of my brain.
And Aiden… I’m glad he gets what he deserves! It’s just a shame it didn’t take longer.
Found family
Trauma
PTSD
Shifter romance
Mates
HEA
I Love that the epilogue is the lead into the next book and I can’t wait to read Sophia’s story.
There are trigger warnings on this one so double check before going into it.
I don’t want to give any spoilers but I will say that The way this book had me crying, shouting and kicking my feet like a giggling schoolgirl is almost embarrassing. Jackson will now live in the book boyfriends part of my brain.
And Aiden… I’m glad he gets what he deserves! It’s just a shame it didn’t take longer.
Found family
Trauma
PTSD
Shifter romance
Mates
HEA
I Love that the epilogue is the lead into the next book and I can’t wait to read Sophia’s story.
June 13, 2025
FLEEING FATE by Fiona Rowan was 👨🍳 💋
I was in tears on more than one occasion while FMC Emily was overcoming her own internal thoughts(in her exes voice) her after escaping a horribly abusive situation.
I grew up in an environment very similar to what the FMC did(minus wolf shifting obviously lol) and it took a LONG time to overcome the beliefs that women were less than men, couldn't/shouldn't enjoy sex, were only good for what men wanted, deserved to be abused for not doing the exact right thing.
Watching Emily get out and overcoming her beliefs that she was worthless and powerless and seeing her healing with therapy and amazing new friends, healed part of me ❤️
This book also had me kicking my feet and giggling at times while Emily and Jackson began to fall for each other.
You get:
🐺 Wolf Shifters
❤️🔥 Omegaverse
🐺 Overcoming Trauma
❤️🔥 Abusive Ex(entire pack complicit)
🐺 Emotional Ride
I can not say enough good things about this book. It was sooooo good, and it is so much more than just a wolf shifter book. It's a journey through healing from trauma.
RATINGS:
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶🌶
Readability: 📚📚📚📚.5
Plot: Zero 🕳 detected
I was in tears on more than one occasion while FMC Emily was overcoming her own internal thoughts(in her exes voice) her after escaping a horribly abusive situation.
I grew up in an environment very similar to what the FMC did(minus wolf shifting obviously lol) and it took a LONG time to overcome the beliefs that women were less than men, couldn't/shouldn't enjoy sex, were only good for what men wanted, deserved to be abused for not doing the exact right thing.
Watching Emily get out and overcoming her beliefs that she was worthless and powerless and seeing her healing with therapy and amazing new friends, healed part of me ❤️
This book also had me kicking my feet and giggling at times while Emily and Jackson began to fall for each other.
You get:
🐺 Wolf Shifters
❤️🔥 Omegaverse
🐺 Overcoming Trauma
❤️🔥 Abusive Ex(entire pack complicit)
🐺 Emotional Ride
I can not say enough good things about this book. It was sooooo good, and it is so much more than just a wolf shifter book. It's a journey through healing from trauma.
RATINGS:
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶🌶
Readability: 📚📚📚📚.5
Plot: Zero 🕳 detected
June 28, 2025
★ARC REVIEW ★
4 ★ | 3 🌶️ | 3 💧
I opened Fleeing Fate expecting your typical shifter romance, but instead I got pulled into an emotional trauma tunnel with a side of ✨golden retriever ✨ and ✨grumpy wolf energy✨. Did I sign up for that? Yes I did. Did Fiona deliver? YES FIONA ROWAN DID JUST THAT! Did I devour it way to fast while aggressively sipping iced coffee like it owed me money? Absolutely.
I LOVED how the FMC was written. It was written in a way that shared her trauma but also showed a realistic growth and strengthening within herself. I cannot begin to stress how much I hate the dialogue of an FMC being weak, broken and trying to pick up the pieces, and here comes the MMC that all a sudden gives her strength and she realization that she's better. THAT IS NOT THE CASE with Fleeing Fate. Emily (FMC) felt raw and real. The emotions, empowerment, thought process Emily went through was relatable.
"Run, little wolf. I'm coming for you."
JACKSON? YES PLEASE. He was giving off all the green flag vibes. Even with his reservations and trauma. He was still the pillar of SUPPORT.
Docked a star because the beginning of the book felt repetitive and there were some dialogue that had me thinking "didn't we cover this? why is this still a question" but still a solid 4 stars, almost 4.5 to be honest.
4 ★ | 3 🌶️ | 3 💧
I opened Fleeing Fate expecting your typical shifter romance, but instead I got pulled into an emotional trauma tunnel with a side of ✨golden retriever ✨ and ✨grumpy wolf energy✨. Did I sign up for that? Yes I did. Did Fiona deliver? YES FIONA ROWAN DID JUST THAT! Did I devour it way to fast while aggressively sipping iced coffee like it owed me money? Absolutely.
I LOVED how the FMC was written. It was written in a way that shared her trauma but also showed a realistic growth and strengthening within herself. I cannot begin to stress how much I hate the dialogue of an FMC being weak, broken and trying to pick up the pieces, and here comes the MMC that all a sudden gives her strength and she realization that she's better. THAT IS NOT THE CASE with Fleeing Fate. Emily (FMC) felt raw and real. The emotions, empowerment, thought process Emily went through was relatable.
"Run, little wolf. I'm coming for you."
JACKSON? YES PLEASE. He was giving off all the green flag vibes. Even with his reservations and trauma. He was still the pillar of SUPPORT.
Docked a star because the beginning of the book felt repetitive and there were some dialogue that had me thinking "didn't we cover this? why is this still a question" but still a solid 4 stars, almost 4.5 to be honest.
July 4, 2025
This was my first shifter romance story, and it was so good.
I loved sweet Emily, poor woman went through it. It was damn satisfying to see her growth when she stayed with the Lunar Eclipse pack.
I loved how patient Jackson and Sofia were with Emily. They made her feel safe, never forced anything on her, and they continued reassuring that she deserved good things.
I can't wait to read more of the overall mystery of what's happening.
Also, I know Sofia and Luca are going to be electrifying. 🔥 I can't wait for them.
I loved sweet Emily, poor woman went through it. It was damn satisfying to see her growth when she stayed with the Lunar Eclipse pack.
I loved how patient Jackson and Sofia were with Emily. They made her feel safe, never forced anything on her, and they continued reassuring that she deserved good things.
I can't wait to read more of the overall mystery of what's happening.
Also, I know Sofia and Luca are going to be electrifying. 🔥 I can't wait for them.
August 23, 2025
So so good
I've had this on my TBR for a moment and I regret not starting it sooner. I just wanted to wrap Emily in a hug and make her feel safe 🥺🥺🥺 I'm so glad she befriended Sofia and fell in love with Jackson. She deserves all the happiness in the world. Jackson deserves it, too.
I really appreciated the snippets of trauma therapy we saw with Emily. She grew so much as a character and it was so rewarding to see it.
I can't wait to read the next book with Sofia and Luca. I already love Sofia but Luca is going to need to redeem himself...
I've had this on my TBR for a moment and I regret not starting it sooner. I just wanted to wrap Emily in a hug and make her feel safe 🥺🥺🥺 I'm so glad she befriended Sofia and fell in love with Jackson. She deserves all the happiness in the world. Jackson deserves it, too.
I really appreciated the snippets of trauma therapy we saw with Emily. She grew so much as a character and it was so rewarding to see it.
I can't wait to read the next book with Sofia and Luca. I already love Sofia but Luca is going to need to redeem himself...
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